Local singers set the world on fire with torch anthem

‘Ignite Your World’ was written by Musical Director Sheila Smyth, who leads the group, and also plays piano on the track.

Referring to the Olympic Torch run, she said: “I think it is deeply significant that people will be running round our borders, with a lit torch. The symbolism of it is quite dramatic. The torch is passed on, from one runner to another, and it caused me to reflect upon what we in Northern Ireland will be passing on to future generations.

“This torch song encourages us to ignite our own worlds, to make a difference while we can, to rise up, and lead the way, and to believe in ourselves individually, and as a people, that we have purpose, and can be the ones to ‘start a fire’.”

The song is led by the young people from Voice of the Bann, Julie, Stephen, Holly, Matthew, Miriam, and Christine. They auditioned earlier in the year, along with Pauline, and recorded the single late February, early March, launching it at the Island Centre in Lisburn at the end of two outstanding concert performances by Voice of the Bann musicians and singers, dancers, and storytellers, which were funded, and encouraged by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

The young people, and the not so young, come from Dromore and Banbridge. They have been greatly supported in both towns, and also by Banbridge Council.

The single was recorded in the ‘Fresh Oil’ building, in Dromore. Sheila works voluntarily as a pastor for Fresh Oil Ministries and Music Centre in Dromore, but has always made her living through music teaching, composition, and performance.

The two things often come together in her life, and this song is a combination of both.

The single is on sale at HMV stores in Lisburn, and Belfast. It is also available through iTunes and online at www.igniteyourworld.co.uk.